Wales have come in for renewed criticism for allowing Warren Gatland to miss part of their crucial autumn international campaign.

Gatland returned to take charge of Wales for their 33-10 defeat to New Zealand on Saturday, having missed earlier tests against Argentina and Samoa to concentrate on scouting and preparations for the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia next summer.

With Rob Howley in charge as temporary head coach, Wales lost against Argentina and Samoa - defeats which could have ramifications for their hopes at the 2015 World Cup. If Wales lose their final autumn international against Australia on Saturday, they could be jettisoned into the third band of seeds for the World Cup draw on December 3.

Gatland will be in charge for the clash with the Wallabies but former Welsh Rugby Union chief executive David Moffett is adamant that Wales made a massive mistake in letting Gatland miss the matches against Samoa and the Pumas.

"You can't do both jobs," Moffett told the Rugby Paper. "That is pathetic. It's a kick in the face to the Welsh nations. Would you get away with that in New Zealand? No, you would not."

He continued: "Gatland should only be involved in Welsh rugby. If you want to work full-time for the Lions, then go. Your head in that event is not with Wales. You can't have someone doing a part-time job for Wales.

"The country is too important for the good of world rugby. It's essential for the game at large that we have a strong Wales."